My feet are failing me.

[Go Devil]

Hello Gentlemen,

I have searched previous threads and am still in need of advice if there is any to offer.

I did a good job of mangling my feet ( twists, strains, sprains, and fractures) and knees while on active duty. My Plantar Fasciitis finally subsided and I have stopped the heavy doses of Ibuprofin.

My current employment still allows me to beat my feet through the woods.
The terrain is now the spurs and draws of Southern Indiana.

My Clothing and Sales boots finally gave up the ghost last year and I am unable to find an exact replacement. I don't buy boots unless I can try them on first. No Px benefit, don't trust mail order, no trusted boots.
I finally settled on a pair of Vasque hiking boots.

I have been happy with the boots, I still roll the ankles on occasion, the knee caps still feel like they are going to pop off like bottle caps when climbing, and have felt normal until a few months ago when I started having signifigant pain on the back side of both heels while climbing. The pain subsides when moving on horizontal ground.
The disturbing pain is in the morning or after a long trip in the truck. As I take those first steps for 30-60 minutes the pain is magnificent and reminds me of the PF only on the back side of my heels.

Is this possibly a boot problem or have I contracted another dose of PF or something new?

My wallet does not have the opportunity to lay-up and heal. I am without health insurance so all medical expenses are out of my pocket.


Any advice is greatly appreciated,

Go Devil

[jatx]

I have been battling issues with my left ATFL for almost two years. If your gait has changed, that can cause the wraparound pain that you describe. So can an accessory navicular. Both of these possibilities are worth discussing with your doc or physical therapist, assuming you do not have an achilles injury, as well. Good luck.

[Eagle5US]

Plantar Fasciitis pain is worst when you have been non weight bearing for any given period of time allowing the plantar fascia to "draw up". Your placing weight on it again then stretches it back out thus tugging on your (no doubt) spurred calcaneus.

There are orthotics (foot stretchers) you can wear at night called night splints. Otherwise, roll a frozen juice can under your foot to reduce inflammation and stretch out your feet before taking your first steps in the morning or after a long drive.
You have a problem that may go away with podiatric intervention...I wish you luck.

Eagle

[JMI]

Had it for 4 years.....still comes back from time to time.

[sofmed]

Do you have flat feet? In general, how is your arch? Do you do any stretching before or after your forays into the woods, especially after being on rough ground?

The right fit of boot is important, as well as the proper insole for your arch type. Is there a sports/shoe related shop near you? Here, close to Bragg we have the Athlete's Foot, which has a floor pad monitored by PC which can read your walk/foot type and then they can suggest what type of shoe/boot and insole type would be best for you. If you have anything close to that it might be a good idea to look into it.

Eagle hit the nail on the head with his suggestions. I've had to use that means of pain relief before myself. It works wonders. Jatx's advice hits home as well.

Wishing you the best!

Mick

[Go Devil]

Thank you all for your response to this thread.

According to my internet searches I do not have Flat Feet. I have never used arch supports (no arch pain), but I do use Sorbothane insoles in all of my boots and shoes. I also stretch before events and training.

I've found a few stores locally that offer fittings as suggested and have also located a podiatrist that is willing to accept my lack of insurance.

Thank you for sharing your insight and knowledge.

I will update this thread when I've learned something about my lame sticks.

Go Devil